Starved Rock State Park

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Citysearch

Overview
With its comfortable lodge, sylvan surroundings and family-friendly activities, it's no wonder that Starved Rock is one of Illinois' most popular attractions outside of Chicago. Aside from exploring the many trails, you can dine in the restaurant or lounge in the cozy Great Hall, where concerts are held and local storyteller Bill Myers holds court. Nearby amenities include horseback riding, jet-skiing and canoeing.

The Experience
Nearly 16 miles of well-marked hiking trails wind past 18 rock formations and stream-fed canyons, which gush in the summer and form magnificent abstract ice sculptures in the winter. Most trails hug the bluff, offering great views of the Illinois River. Red and white oaks, white pine and cedar trees are abundant along the clear streams making for colorful hikes in the autumn months. While only a few miles long, the trails can be tiring, what with all the climbing up and down stairs to those canyons.